Japanese government affirms that the health impact of PFAS chemicals is “undeniable”

Japan’s food safety panel recently conducted its first health assessment of chemicals known as PFAS and concluded that they have undeniable effects on birthweight loss and reduced immunity, sparking concerns about cancer risk. However, the panel also noted that there is limited evidence regarding the potential of PFAS to cause cancer, with much still unknown about their adverse health effects.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their nearly indestructible nature and ability to accumulate in the environment and human body. These substances are commonly found in products like frying pan coatings and water-repellent clothing, and have been detected in high concentrations near Self-Defense Forces and U.S. military bases, as well as industrial areas in Japan.

The food safety commission determined that the allowable daily intake of the two most common forms of PFAS, PFOS and PFOA, is 20 nanograms per 1 kilogram of body weight for each substance. Currently, the government has set a provisional cap of 50 nanograms per liter for tap water and rivers, but this may need to be reviewed based on the commission’s assessment and an ongoing nationwide survey on PFAS concentration in tap water.

A study conducted by the Environment Ministry for fiscal 2022 found that in 16 out of 38 prefectures in Japan, PFAS concentrations in rivers and groundwater exceeded the government threshold. As a result, the ministry is planning to discuss potential revisions to the provisional cap in order to address the presence of these chemicals in the environment and their impact on public health.